How To Make DIY Copper Curtain Rods

As you may know, I have a long list of DIY projects in mind for my home. But there is one I’ve been itching to try out for a long time.

While I like the curtains in the dining room, I was not a fan of the curtain rods. So I decided to make my own Copper Curtain Rods, and here’s how.

Before You Start

Measure the width of your window to determine how long your copper pipe needs to be. Then add 24 inches to that measurement to get the total length of your rod.

Decide How Many Brackets You Need

You need two brackets at either end of the window to hold the copper rod. If your window is more than 40 inches wide, your pipe may bend under the weight of the curtains. In this case, use the third bracket in the middle of the window.

Materials You Will Need

• A length of 1/2 inch Copper Pipe as determined by your measurement
• Two 1/2 inch Copper Pipe Caps
• Two Metal Curtain Rod Brackets (or three depending on the length of your window)
• Toggle Bolts
• Sanding Block
• A drill

Preparation

Before you start, it is a good idea to use the sanding block to smooth the edges of your copper pipe. The edges can be quite sharp when the pipe is cut.

Locate Where To Put The Brackets

I decided that 6 inches to the side of my window were the ideal place to put the brackets. This allows for 6 inches of pipe to extend past the brackets.

If you want this to be longer or shorter, alter your pipe length accordingly before the hardware store cuts it for you.

Add A Third Bracket If Needed

If your curtains are heavy, or if your window is greater than 40 inches wide, consider adding a third bracket for extra strength. Otherwise, your copper pipe may bend in the middle under the weight.

Align The Brackets

Once you determine where the brackets need to go, make sure that they are level with each other. You can measure whatever distance above the window you wish your rod to be. I opted for 6 inches as it suits my window best.

Attach The Brackets

Drill the holes depending on the type of brackets you have opted for. Then attach the brackets using the toggle bolts. You can place the rod on the brackets to ensure that everything is correct with the location of the brackets.

Attach The Copper Pipe Caps

Place a copper pipe cap on either end of the copper pipe. They should fit right on there without any need to use epoxy or glue. This adds a nice finish to the ends of the curtain rod.

Hang Your Curtains

Place the curtains on your rod using large curtain rings and you are ready to hang your curtains. Stand back and admire your new look Copper Curtain Rod.

Decide On Your Look

I absolutely adore the industrial copper look so I left my curtain rod as is. But you should be aware that copper will oxidize over time and will change color. I feel that it adds to the aesthetic, but you can paint the rod if you want a different look.

Paint Your Curtain Rod (Optional)

If you decide to paint the curtain rod, I would opt for a simple black color. Spray paint is the easiest option. Make sure to spray the rod in a well-ventilated area. If you know in advance you wish to paint the rod, then I would paint the brackets before attaching them to the walls.

Conclusion

Making your own DIY Copper Curtain Rods couldn’t be easier right? So get out your measuring tape and start measuring those windows. Remember to take the pipe strength into consideration if your windows are wide or you will use heavy curtains. And then just follow the simple steps:

• Measure the windows and calculate the pipe length.
• Ask the hardware store to cut the pipe for you.
• Gather the other required bits and pieces.
• Attach the copper pipe caps.
• Fix the brackets to the wall.
• Attach your curtains with large curtain rings.
• Hang your curtains onto the pipe.
• Admire your new look Copper Curtain Rod.

Key Lessons

Making a Copper Curtain Rod is a very simple project. The most important thing is to visualize how you want the end product to look so you can purchase the correct length of pipe. Happy crafting.